The Black Forest

For me, the most precious rewards of travel fall into two categories. 1) the unlikely connection with certain people at a certain time (which often leads to another meeting down the road) and 2) exposure to local places or events that the common tourist might never see. Some would call it serendipity, others divine appointment. Whatever the name, it always thrills me.

Two years ago, Charlie and I had dinner in Paris and met a German couple at the next table (those of you, probably women, who lean over and ask about the dish they were just served will understand exactly how we met). By the end of the meal, we exchanged information in case their kids ever came to California, etc.

Fast forward ~ we just met up with their family and had the most wonderful visit! We weren't even planning on going to that part of Germany, but they led us on a beautiful hike, invited us to their home for dinner, and took us to a "restaurant" that is only open six weeks of the year when the new wine grapes are harvested. It was such a unique atmosphere and we thoroughly enjoyed their grown children, too. We're grateful beyond words.

And we needed it. We'd seen five days of rain and Charlie had more of an excuse to log on and focus on the financial crisis. Not a great combo.

Highlights of the past week include a toboggan run in Gutach, the Grimm's fairytale architecture in quaint villages, and of course, our visit with the Sauerbecks. Life is good.